Exploring the UK countryside with your dog is a highlight of many staycations, but it carries hidden risks for pets and wildlife. From ticks that can carry Lyme disease to adders capable of delivering potentially fatal bites, the outdoors presents a range of challenges. Canine Cottages has collaborated with animal behaviourist Dr Emma Scales-Theobald to offer science-based advice to help dog owners enjoy safe and responsible walks during the summer months.
Dr Scales-Theobald stresses the importance of livestock safety. UK law requires that dogs be kept on a lead when near livestock to prevent chasing or distressing the animals. Spring lambing season increases the risk of incidents, as sheep can suffer under stress and cattle may become aggressive. She advises using a short lead in these situations to ensure the safety of both livestock and dogs. “It is a legal requirement for dogs to be kept on a lead and under control when near livestock,” she says. “Even if you think your dog will ignore the other animals, a restraint must be used in every case.”
Ticks thrive in long grass and woodlands and can transmit Lyme disease, which can be fatal to dogs. Dr Scales-Theobald advises dog owners to check common hiding spots such as ears, armpits, groin, and neck after every walk. A tick removal tool should be used to ensure the tick is removed properly, without leaving any parts behind. Preventive treatments approved by veterinarians are essential from spring through autumn.
Adder snakes are another concern. As the UK’s only venomous snake, they are most active from April, particularly in heathlands and moorlands. A bite can be life-threatening, with symptoms such as drooling, lethargy, or vomiting. Dr Scales-Theobald says, “If bitten, seek emergency veterinary help immediately.” Owners should keep their dog calm and carry them to limit the spread of venom before seeking treatment.
Ground-nesting birds also need protection during nesting season, which runs from March to July. Dogs roaming off-lead can disturb nests and cause harm to young birds. Owners are advised to stick to marked paths, pay attention to local signage, and keep dogs on a lead when walking through open access land during this period.
Encounters with deer can quickly escalate, especially between May and August when fawns often lie hidden in tall grass. Dogs may chase deer, risking injury or becoming lost. Dr Scales-Theobald recommends using a long lead in deer habitats and ensuring dogs are trained to remain calm in such settings.
Insect stings from wasps, bees, or horseflies can cause pain and allergic reactions in dogs. Dr Scales-Theobald suggests using toys to keep dogs distracted in areas where stings are likely and recommends that owners carry vet-approved antihistamines, antiseptic wipes, and bandages in a first aid kit. She warns never to squeeze a sting, as doing so can release more venom.
Proper waste disposal is another essential part of countryside walking. Dog faeces can spread disease and disrupt local ecosystems. Dog owners are reminded to always bag and bin waste, as even biodegradable bags can be harmful to the environment if left behind.
Dr Scales-Theobald highlights the value of preparation, including training recall skills and carrying essential first aid items such as tick removers, bandages, and your vet’s contact information. Her guidance is consistent with advice from the British Veterinary Association, which emphasises the role of preventative treatment and vigilance when walking dogs in rural areas.
To help dog owners prepare, Canine Cottages encourages advance planning of walking routes. This includes checking for seasonal beach closures to protect nesting birds and avoiding areas where deer may be present. Consistent recall training in secure spaces can help reduce the risk of wildlife encounters. The Countryside Code, last updated in 2021, reinforces these responsibilities by urging all walkers to respect nature and protect the countryside.
With 3.2 million households in the UK now owning dogs, according to the 2024 Pet Population report by the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals, responsible walking is increasingly important. By following Dr Scales-Theobald’s expert guidance, dog owners can enjoy summer adventures while safeguarding both their pets and local wildlife.